The energy was different Friday afternoon around Saint Thomas Sports Park, aka Titans HQ. The players had been calling this a playoff game for a week, and, sure enough, there was a playoff energy as reporters from both NBC — Michele Tafoya! — and the NFL Network conducted post-practice interviews.

There should be a palpable energy Sunday night in and around Nissan Stadium.

We also learned Friday that quarterback Marcus Mariota (stinger) again practiced, albeit in a limited capacity. The presumption that he’d be available was quashed by reports Sunday morning saying that concerns about Mariota’s long-term health mean Blaine Gabbert will be the likely starter against Indy.

That, clearly, would throw a big wrench into Tennessee’s plans. Mariota had looked good throwing in practice windows in which media members, including myself, were allowed to watch.

Regardless, we’ll know by mid-afternoon whether the game will be for the...